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Sisterlocks, Dreadlocks, Brotherlocks, Locs Are Alluring And Sexy

So, you came across someone with stylish, beautiful, locs, perhaps Sisterlocks, Dreadlocks or Brotherlocks. You saw them on the way to the grocery store or while watching the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. We all melted when Doria Ragland showed the world once and for all that locs are beautiful.

As the mother of the bride, there was no doubt she’d show up looking absolutely gorgeous.

The mother-daughter duo arrived at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle together. Doria beamed with so much pride as she left the Rolls Royce and walked into the chapel. That’s when we all caught a glimpse of her shoulder length locs. She wore a twist out and pulled them away from her face. What a class act!

Now that Doria got our attention, lets learn more about the different locs – Sisterlocks, Dreadlocks and Brotherlocks.

Sisterlocks

Sisterlocks were created using a trademarked locking technique that consists of a precision parting grid and a special tool that places your hair into its locking formation.

The decision to install Sisterlocks can be a bigger money commitment than other natural hairstyles. Therefore, it is essential that you read this guide and make an informed decision. Sisterlocks have their own unique different style. Many people have misidentified them as well. How do some describe the look:

Some people say that they look like microbraids

Others say that they resemble microlocs

If you are looking to know more about Sisterlocks, however, this section is for you. And by the time you are done reading, you will have sufficient knowledge about this natural hairstyle. The decision will be whether you should make them your hairstyle of choice.

Sisterlocks were invented by Dr. Joanne Cornwell in the year 1993. At the time, she was an African American Studies professor. Sisterlocks were first invented as a special kind of crochet hook that was meant to create micro-sized traditional locks, which would be easier to style and manage.

Her intention was also to provide black women with a way in which they could do their hair without involving the use of extensions or chemicals.

The Invention

The brand has been trademarked as well as protected under patent, so you will need to book an appointment with a certified Sisterlock technician to obtain the Sisterlock instation. Since its invention, this hairstyle has remained a popular choice among those who prefer being all-natural.

Dr Cornwell also created a similar system for the males, known as brotherlocks. The only difference between these two is that the brotherlocks are a bit larger, but smaller than the traditional dreads. Don’t worry, I will provide more details further in this article about brotherlocks.

What Exactly Are Sisterlocks?

Sisterlocks are viewed as small and stylable locks, which are formed through a developed interlocking method. Interlocking refers to the use of a tool when you want to create locks. This is opposed to using your palms to roll or the popular two-strand twisting method.

Sisterlock hair technicians will create your locs from the roots to the hair tip. This will minimize damage to your hair follicles or pulling at the root. Since these locs are extremely versatile and small, there are numerous hairstyles that you can wear.

Sisterlocks on short hair look incredibly amazing. And, if you are dying for a particular length, you could choose to go with Sisterlock extensions until your hair has grown to the right length.

Sisterlocks Pictures

Considering Sisterlocks? Here Is What You Should Know

Do you have low-density hair and are considering giving Sisterlocks a try? The truth is that short hair means that you will not spend hours in the interlocking chair. It could also mean that you will pay less than those who have denser hair.

While you will not have issues getting Sisterlocks installed on your head if you have thin hair, you will see a grid for the first few months. Not to worry as your locs will soon fill out.

For some people, these locks usually evoke the image of low-maintenance and carefree island vacations.

Apologies for the spoiler, but that is far from the reality of this hairstyle. While the installation of locks could take quite some time, dedication and a lot of money, the payoff is definitely well worth it. And as you are probably aware, Sisterlocks are considered a lifestyle change and an ultimate commitment to having the hairstyle of your dreams.

If you are looking to free yourself of bad hair days and hair problems, here are some aspects you need to know about. And once you have your Sisterlocks installed, I guarantee that you will never have to deal with bad hair days again.

1. Sisterlocks CAN BE expensive

While this hairstyle is not real cheap to install, the truth is that the prices can vary depending on factors such as location and stylist. In most places, the prices will begin at $500. This could even be higher depending on where you choose to have the installation done.

Normally, the technician could choose to charge per inch once your locks reach a certain length. Others could also charge extra money for the density. If you need some retightening work done, and you will, the there are maintenance fees.

It is imperative that you shop around for a technically skilled technician that you are comfortable with. And do your best to find a consultant that does not charge exorbitant prices. Remember, getting your locs done initially is just the start of your journey, you will always need retightening appointments.

2. Do Your Homework

Installing Sisterlocks isn’t like any other hairstyle you might choose. Unlike other hairstyles, which can be done by anyone with a little knowledge, Sisterlocks should only be installed by someone who is fully certified.

And if you visit sisterlocks.com, you will find certified technicians who can install your natural hairstyle. If the name of your consultant is not available on this website, then it would be a good idea to proceed with your search. The only reason I say this is because there are a lot of so-called technicians who suck at the job and charge way too much. I believe everyone deserves to be paid for their services, but not gouged!

3. Ask To See Previous Work

As mentioned earlier, Sisterlocks are not the popular braids that you normally see being done in a beauty shop. That is why it is important that you ask to see pictures of other installations the technician have done before you can sit in their chair.

Being a certified consultant is just half of what you will need to know. You should also make a point of ensuring that all their work is satisfactory to YOU. It is your hair after all. Apart from this, it would also be smart if you talked with some of their current clients and review Yelp.

4. Understand This Is a Lifestyle Change

You are probably already used to the flat irons, brushes, curling irons, and combs. Well, this is the time to kiss all that goodbye. After installing Sisterlocks, you will no longer use or need those tools. You will also not have to use any particular hair product on your hair since it is not recommended while the locks mature.

You should only use products that are approved by your Sisterlocks consultant. So, just pack up every hair product you have in your closet and give them to someone who could benefit from them.

5. Shampooing Will Be Different

When you choose to install Sisterlocks, you should know that you have already signed up for a special technique of washing your hair that you were not accustomed to. This means that you will no longer wash your hair in the manner that you did for your other hairstyles.

Once you decide to have the new Sisterlock look, your consultant will direct you on how you will be shampooing your hair. Want to get a jumpstart on the process? Check out this tutorial on Bundle & Banding Method for Sisterlocks Shampoo from curlynugrowth.

Your consultant will review shampooing best practices. Rough shampooing, for instance, could disturb the locks and eventually create loose hair around the base. Your consultant will most likely advise you to be gentler and even ask you to show how you go about shampooing your locks.

6. Enjoy the Sisterlocks Journey

Prior to installing Sisterlocks, it is important that you exercise patience and understand that everyone’s journey is always different in one way or the other. Your hair will definitely undergo some trials and you might have to deal with unwanted frizz or slippage depending on your hair’s natural texture.

All the same, you should know that your consultant will be by your side along this journey and committed to seeing you through until your locks have matured. And once you decide this is the hairstyle for you, you will be thrilled as many women have testified.

About Sisterlock Installation

With a patented installation technique, Sisterlocks do not follow the conventional methods of hair locking that most of you have come across, including palm roll and two-strand twist. The installation of this hairstyle is done with a precision technique that needs hands-on training straight from the company.

This installation technique often utilizes a special Sisterlocking Tool, which firmly styles the locks into place. And when the locking is done correctly, a wearer could style their hair just as they would braids, micro braids or loose hair.

However, just like anything else that is worth doing, it needs commitment for long-lasting results.

It is important that you visit a certified Sisterlock consultant for some insight into this classic technique. The consultant will first make arrangements for a consultation session with you, so that they know how to move forward with your locks.

Anyone who has a bit of texture on their hair is usually considered an ideal candidate for this locking method. If you have straight hair; however, you will not be an ideal candidate for this hairstyle since curl in your hair is essential for this technique to work effectively.

Additionally, if your hair is thinning, weak, damaged or sparse, this might not be the best hairstyle for you. The consultant will also advise about the installation cost as well as the amount of time it will take.

Maintaining Your Sisterlocks

Once you have made the decision to have your Sisterlocks installed and all the necessary salon work has been done, you will need to make a point of protecting your investment. Contrary to popular belief, Sisterlocks are LOW maintenance NOT zero maintenance. For the proper development of your newly acquired locks, regular retightening is important.

On average, your consultant will recommend about one to two months. Your hair’s rate of growth, texture and the amount of care you give to the newly installed sisterlocks will determine the kind of maintenance schedule you will have to follow.

Retightening usually takes less than two hours and it could depend on the amount of repair work needed, the amount of growth, as well as the size of your locks.

Why is Retightening An Important Aspect of Maintenance?

Retightening helps with the development and uniformity of your locks. It also makes it possible for the Sisterlock consultant to monitor the development of your locks and make the required changes before your locks can settle in. Retightening can control hair slippage better. If your hair is loose, it will take longer to lock.

What Will Happen If You Fail To Maintain Your Locks Regularly?

Failure to maintain your locks on a regular basis means that you will probably have bunching locks. What does that mean? Your hair will develop more like the traditional locs rather than sisterlocks.

Without proper maintenance, it is easy to compromise the integrity of your Sisterlocks. You will wind up with locs with split ends and breakage. This is the result of loose hair from infrequent retightening. The separation of locks after applying shampoo is also essential and with regular retightening, you could easily maintain this separation.

The relationship you have with your consultant is not the same as the one you may have had with your stylist when getting chemical treatment services. For years it may have been possible to do what you wanted with your hair, walk into any salon, sit in the stylists chair and have them do their thing. Mostly things would be ok. This is not that experience!

From the moment your locks are installed to the time they settle in completely, it is important that you cooperate with your consultant. That is, if you want to achieve the best results possible. This implies that you must follow all recommendations made by your consultant regarding periodic grooming routines and retightening.

How Often Should You Get a Retightening?

Depending on the look you intend to rock, the average answer is every 6 weeks. However, you could easily learn how to do the retightening on your own through your consultant or technician. While some could find it entirely exhilarating, others might decide never to maintain their own locks and just want to understand the entire process.

Whatever category you lie in, bear in mind that the easiest way to achieve healthy, beautiful, and uniform, Sisterlocks is through regular maintenance and retightening procedures, irrespective of whether you do them on your own or have a technician do it.

Pros and Cons of Sisterlocks

The Pros

Versatility: While all locks obviously have a level of versatility, none of them compares to Sisterlocks due to their size. Sisterlocks usually make the thinnest of loose hair appear fuller. In addition to this, the styling possibilities for Sisterlocks are just endless. You could use heat (curl/flat iron) and even perform the fanciest up-do. It is also possible for you to style as much or as little as you want.

Freedom: You will no longer have to worry about rainy days once you install Sisterlocks. In fact, moisture will now be your best friend. Talk about wash and go hair locks. Retightening is usually done after a month or two so you could have easy maintenance during that time.

All-natural: Sisterlocks do not require many hair care products. As a matter of fact, they often look best when they are clean with minimal products. Besides being relaxer free, you will also be free from the addiction of curl defining products.

The Cons

According to the experts, there are several downsides to this locking technique, one of the downsides is that if your locks are done wrong. It could result in breakage, thinning, or both as well as a sore scalp. You will need to have a certified consultant to install these locks, a process that is painstakingly long.

Straight hair will not cut it for your Sisterlocks since you must have some kind of texture or curl for this style to work effectively. Additionally, if you often suffer from thinning or damaged hair, this is not the right style for you.

Finding a good consultant who will educate you as well as guide you through your Sisterlock journey is not an easy feat. The installation technique of Sisterlocks is considered to be highly secretive and this secrecy seems to result in inconsistency as well as poor customer service.

Another downside about this hairstyling technique is that it is quite expensive when compared to other forms of natural hairstyling. This is an expensive installation, which could go into hundreds of dollars. Not forgetting that retightening is another re-occurring fee.

Can Sisterlocks be Undone?

It is possible to have your Sisterlocks undone, although it can be a tedious and time-consuming process. It is important to do research before installing Sisterlocks, so you don’t get to this point.

If you decide to unlock, go through tutorials on YouTube and schedule an appointment with a professional who has experience removing them.

There will not be a huge problem if you are looking to remove short Sisterlocks, but the installation and removal of Sisterlocks that have long hair will need more time as well as patience.

Can You Color Sisterlocks?

While this is an issue that is shrouded with a lot of misconceptions, the truth is you can color your Sisterlocks. Adding color to the Sisterlocks gives them an interesting, but unique appearance. It is worth noting that using a semi-permanent dye will have a less harsh effect on your locks. In addition, they will look less frizzy. Some of the best color brands are Naturtint and Herbatint.

Hair color is known to cause hair dryness. It is advisable that you color your hair before installing the Sisterlocks or wait for a year after the installation.

Using the right moisturizer is the key to Sisterlock, Dreadlock and Brotherlock hairstyles.Obsessed Hair Oil helps prevent dryness and breakage while at the same time promoting growth.

IMPORTANT TIP:

Massage the oil onto your scalp because having healthy hair starts from the scalp. In addition, add Obsessed Hair Oil to your scalp before you go to bed, so it can do its moisturizing magic while you sleep.

Finally, color your hair a few days before retightening to ensure the dye does not unravel the locks.

What Renee, a former sisterlocks wearer had to say

As for my experience wearing Sisterlocks I loved it! Regrettably, though I had two problems.

Living in Hawaii I had limited availability and cost for a “professional” to maintain my locks, which I cannot no longer.

When my locks were put in back in 2008, the locker did not “know” my hair, so the locks were too small. My hair is soft and fluffy. At first, small locks seemed to work well, but over time, I had to combine the locks because the locked hair was too heavy on the new growth… big mistake on my part. It turns out I suffered a great deal of breakage in the temple and nape areas. This was due to the extra heaviness of the combined locks.

If I could afford locks and ongoing maintenance, I would do the Sisterlocks again as I see so many women (in person, mags, etc.) with beautiful strong healthy locks. I wish I could do them again, but for now, I will stick with the TWA … teeny weeny Afro until my finances are right!

Dreadlocks

All About Dreadlocks

Dreadlocks, also known as dreads or locks are one of the trendiest and most popular hairstyles that have been around for a long time. However, the most recent surge in popularity in pop culture can be traced back to the 1970’s due to Bob Marley, who’s one of the World’s most famous reggae artists.

Dreadlocks History

Dreads have been around for the longest of time. Ancient Egyptians wore them, cavemen wore them, ancient Asian emperors wore them, and even characters mentioned in the Bible such as Samson and John the Baptist wore them.

The first writing available about dreads is contained in the Indian Veda scriptures, with the earliest piece dating back to 1800 BC. However, many tribes and peoples have worn dreads including the Greeks, Germanic tribes, Naga Indians, Pacific peoples, among others.

King Tut himself actually wore dreads, which are still intact to this day. Members of the Mau Mau movement in Kenya wore dreads to intimidate the colonisers. Even Caesar claimed that Celts wore dreads by describing them as having “hair like snakes”.

The term ‘dreadlocks’ is of Jamaican origin due to its association with the Rastafarian movement. The term comes from the word dread, which means horror and fear. Today, locks are worn by the Aborigines, Fulani, Maasai, New Guineans, Somali, among other peoples and tribes.

What Are Dreadlocks?

Dreads are matted rope-like clumps of hair that form naturally if hair is neglected. However, you can also form them on purpose through various methods that allow you to control how they look and make them attractive. Several methods are used to achieve this and the most popular ones are discussed below.

How to Make Dreadlocks

You can make dreads in a variety of ways, but the most popular and common ones are discussed below. To make dreads regardless of method, you will need the following items:

– Blow Dryer

– Fine Toothed Comb

– Residue-Free Shampoo

– Dread Wax

– Rubber Bands/Clips

Backcombing

1. Wash the hair using the shampoo and allow it to dry.

2. Split the hair into 1-inch by 1-inch sections. Use the rubber bands for holding the sections while you are sectioning the rest of the hair.

3. Remove the rubber bands starting at the back of the head and start teasing the hair towards the scalp. Backcomb just about half an inch of hair at a time to ensure that the dreads don’t form loops.

4. Upon backcombing a particular section of hair, put two rubber bands – one on the root and one at the tip. Apply some of the wax and palm roll it.

5. Repeat the steps above for all the sections of hair.

Twist

1. Wash the hair using the prescribed shampoo and allow it to dry.

2. Split the hair into 1-inch by 1-inch sections. Use the rubber bands to hold the sections while you finish sectioning the rest of the hair.

3. Once you finish sectioning all the hair, take one section at a time and twist it back and forth between fingers, apply some wax on the twist, and continue twisting. The more hair is twisted back and forth, the quicker the locks with form and lock in place.

Twist and Pin

1. Wash the hair with the prescribed shampoo and allow it to dry.

2. Split the hair into 1-inch by 1-inch sections. Use clips or rubber bands to hold the sections while you finish up sectioning the rest of the hair.

3. Once you finish sectioning all the hair, take one section at a time, twist it and then apply some wax and continue twisting until the twist is down into a ball on your head.

Twist and Rip

1. Split the hair into 1-inch by 1-inch sections. Use the rubber bands for holding the sections while you section the rest of the hair.

2. Apply shampoo to the hair and ensure that you rub the head in a clockwise motion when you wash it.

3. Once you are out of the shower and the hair is dry pull the hair apart in the sections where the rubber bands are attached.

4. Once you pull apart the sections, apply some dread wax to each section and palm roll.

Dread Braiding

1. Wash the hair using the prescribed shampoo and allow it to dry.

2. Split the hair into 1-inch by 1-inch sections. Use the rubber bands to hold the sections while you finish up sectioning the rest of the hair.

3. Once all the hair is split into sections, take one section at a time and braid it. Once you finish a braid, add a rubber band to the root and tip and apply some wax and palm roll the braids.

4. Repeat the steps above for each section.

Dreadlocks Maintenance

The question that almost everyone has about dreads is whether they can be washed. The simple answer is yes, you need to wash your locks regularly to keep them looking great. However, there are several other things to keep in mind with regards to maintenance:

1. Don’t Wash Your Locks the First Week: Your locks will be incredibly delicate the first week after getting them done. If you wash them at this point you might loosen and unravel them. So, buy a large shower cap to protect your dreads from the water when you shower during the first week. However, don’t forego showering completely to protect the locks.

2. Wash Dreads Using Residue-Free Shampoo: You can wash the locks 1 to 3 times weekly after the initial first week of leaving them unwashed. Residue shampoo like Knatty Dread Dreadlocks Shampoo is the only recommended option because regular shampoo leaves behind residue that eventually builds up in the hair leading to mold growth in your locks. Ouch! Other benefits of this shampoo:

Tightens dreadlocks and helps new growth lock

Completely residue free, unscented

Great for dreadlocks ALL hair types

Reduces drying time after washing

Renewable coconut based formula

3. Dry Your Locks Completely: Whether you prefer to blow dry or air dry the dreads, it is important to ensure that they dry completely to the core before washing them again. If you leave them wet, they can start to smell.

4. Regular Palm Rolling and Waxing: If you start feeling that your locks are loosening up, apply some of the dread pomade and palm roll to tighten them up. You might need to do this on a weekly basis when the dreads are in the early stages. The recommended choice is Dollylocks Dreadlock “Beeswax Alternative”. Pomade.

Pros and Cons of Dreadlocks

The Pros of Dreads

Knot-Free Hair: If you have locks, you will never have to worry about having knots in your hair. You don’t have to painfully and tearfully comb the knots out. You will even be happier with knots since they make it easier to form knots.

Low Maintenance: Dreads are practically low-maintenance or maintenance free because you don’t have to wash your hair too often. Water tends to loosen and thin out dreads. Over time, you will build your hair’s stamina, which means that it can go for longer without the need to wash it.

Confidence Boosting: Dreads make for a wonderful fashion statement, which means that you are free to express your individuality and be more comfortable in your own skin when wearing them, which means that you will be more confident.

Fashion Statement: If you have interlocked hair on your head, you will always have a fashion statement to go with your style. Locks are also very effective at making you look fierce but cool at the same time irrespective of what you are wearing.

No More Bad Hair Days: If you have dreads, your hair will stay the same every day, which means that you will no longer have to worry about bad hair days. It means, therefore, that you will always have great hair every day whether you are going to work or out on a date.

The Cons of Dreads

Unwarranted Attention: People sometimes have negative connotations about dreads and this might get you into trouble especially with law enforcement. Other people may choose to steer clear of you since they have the wrong idea about locks.

Hygiene: Dreads are not typically washed every day, which makes them low maintenance, but it doesn’t mean that they never get dirty. Fur, lint, and other kinds of dirt and debris may get stuck in the dreads and this can make your scalp itchy. So you may need to wash your hair 1 to 3 times a week.

Time Consuming: It takes time for dreads to grow long. Unless you have naturally long hair prior to turning it into dreads, it will be a while before your dreads get really long.

Comfort: When you first get your locks done, you might find it uncomfortable or difficult to sleep. Some people actually never grow fond of sleeping on them.

Common Questions & Answers About Dreadlocks

Can I Wash My Locks?

Yes, you should. However, don’t do it too often since it may cause them to dry out. It is also important to be cautious of the type of shampoo that you choose because some varieties will leave residue in the hair. You might also like this dreadlock shampoo soap. By the way, it works great on Sisterlocks and Brotherlocks too!

Can I Brush My Locks?

The simple answer is no. Dreads are designed to be intertwined and brushing them will only unravel them. It negates all the hard work, time, and effort that you have invested in creating them.

Can I Go Swimming with My Locks?

Yes. Anytime that you swim with a full head of hair, you might notice a few strands falling out. It is a completely natural occurrence and shouldn’t be of any concern. It is believed that ocean saltwater can clean and re-energize locs thus helping them grow faster and healthier.

How Can I Make My Locks Grow Faster?

You need to pay close attention to your diet because it is the greatest determinant of your hair growth rate. Limit your intake of refined sugar as well as sodium. Focus on a diet that consists of whole grains, lean meats and fresh fruits and vegetables.

Can I Cover My Locks When Sleeping?

It will depend on your hair type. If your locks tend to dry out thus leading to damage such as split ends, it is advisable to wear a cap when sleeping. If you do this, you will prevent the scalp’s natural oils from escaping thus helping to moisturize the locks in the process.

No elastic bands to create hairline friction, will not damage your hairline

Moisture stays in, lint stays out

Breathable, stretchable, premium fabric

Will not fall off during the night

Can I ‘Undo’ My Locks?

The question about whether it is possible to undo the locks once they are done is one that many people considering getting dreads ask. You always have the option to cut and shave the locks to remove them, but it is also possible to undo them especially if they are still young (less than 1 year). It involves washing and rewashing the locks using lots of conditioner until they unravel. It is not easy or fast, but it is possible.

Brotherlocks

All You Need To Know About Brotherlocks

Making the decision regarding the style of lock you want is not easy since there are so many options for you to choose from. Researching the different locking techniques can also be incredibly complex. Brotherlocks are an emerging lock style for men.

Brotherlocks have a distinct style and this is what sets them apart from other types of locks. It is always a good idea to first check out all your available options before reaching for your wallet since it will help you save both money and time.

The following is a detailed look into this lock style to help you determine whether on not you should install them. If you are searching for a comprehensive guide into this lock style, you need not look further.

What Are Brotherlocks?

It is a patented lock hairstyle that’s made using a special tool and is designed specifically for men. The individual locks are much smaller than traditional dreadlocks, but slightly larger than Sisterlocks, which come from the same company.

The lock style was invented and trademarked by Dr. JoAnne Cornwell, who was a professor at San Diego State University. She set out to create a hairstyle that would be natural and helped promote the self-esteem of wearers. She first created Sisterlocks for the ladies followed by Brotherlocks for the men.

Check out Datguy on YouTube. Below is one of his videos. You can see his hair journey and he gives additional tips too!

How to Start Brotherlocks

This lock style can only be installed by a certified loctician, which means that it is not something that you can easily do yourself at home as is the case with traditional dreadlocks. A certain level of commitment is also required because you will need to go for several visits throughout the year. It is important to ensure that you first do proper research before you choose a loctician.

If you would like to get this style of lock, you first have to do proper preparation. It is important that you do regular deep conditioning of your hair in the weeks leading up to your appointment. However, you should avoid conditioners and oils on the final wash just before your appointment. Conditioners and oil might cause your locks to slip out.

Detangle your hair and section it the day prior to your appointment in preparation for the installation. Allow your hair to air dry. The installation session is usually quite long, which is why you need to ensure that you dress comfortably. Carry food, water, and entertainment with you. Magazines, books, and your tablet or smartphone are all excellent options for your session.

Brotherlocks Installation

The locks are a lifetime commitment so it can be a great idea to interview up to 3 separate locticians before choosing one that you believe is right for you. The following is a breakdown of the required appointments.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

The initial consultation is your first appointment with the loctician where he/she will discuss the history of your hair and learn more about your styling preferences. The loctician will then install between 1 and 10 sample locks in your hair to determine whether this is the right lock style for you. If you decide that you like how they look and want to install then, the loctician will book an appointment for the complete installation.

Step 2: Installation

The installation is the main visit. You can expect the locking session to take anywhere between 10 and 20 hours, so you can decide to schedule it over the course of 2 days. The loctician will proceed to install between 400 and 500 locks using a special tool. They will give you a starter kit comprising of a tip sheet for caring for your hair, tiny rubber bands, and shampoo. You will also schedule your follow-up visit on the day of the installation. If your hair is either dense or long, you can expect to pay extra.

Step 3: Follow-Up Visit

The purpose of the follow-up visit is to verify the integrity of your locks as well as to tighten any locks that have experienced slippage. You can also talk about the styling options and ask any questions that you might have about caring for your locs. The follow-up visit is typically scheduled one month after installation and after you have shampooed your hair not less than 2 times.

Step 4: Retightening Sessions

Your locks will have to be tightened by the loctician every 4 to 8 weeks. During these sessions, the loctician will check the progress and monitor the proper formation of your locks. You can decide to invest in official training so that you can get the special tool and retighten your own locks.

Step 5: Caring for Your Locks

It is important to take care of your locks especially when they are freshly installed. During the first few months, they tend to be susceptible to slippage. However, you should be ready to wait for at least 2 weeks after the installation for the first wash.

Washing your hair every two weeks during this period is ideal. Also, spray your Brotherlocks with water during the week to prevent dryness. Remember, a healthy strand of hair is 10% water. Your Brotherlocks need hydration. If it doesn’t get the water it needs, your locks will be come brittle to such an extent that they might even break.

Once your locks have matured, you are free to wash them every week without any fear of them loosening.

You should ensure that you avoid using brushes or combs on the lock since it can cause breakage or frizz. A better idea would be to finger comb your locks gently and style.

Caring for the locks is simple because they are thin, which makes it easier for you to access your scalp. It is important to wash your locks to prevent the formation of mildew and then dry them as quickly as possible.

On the day that you wash the locks, it is important to bind them together neatly using a ponytail holder to ensure that they never break. Cleanse the scalp well to avoid fungus and dandruff. Cleansing your scalp promotes healthy growth of your locks and keeps them clean too.

Apply a conditioner to soften the hair while creating a nice shine. However, you should ensure that you avoid using any products that contain too much slip. Slippery products might cause the loosening of the locks, particularly in the initial phases.

Brotherlocks Cost

In terms of the cost breakdown for your locks, you can expect to pay between $25 and $50 for the initial consultation, $500 to $800 for the installation, $100 for the follow-up visit (It might be also charged hourly), and about $100 for the retightening sessions. Besides the consultation, installation, and retightening costs, you should also factor in the costs of traveling back and forth to your appointments.

Brotherlocks Sizes

The locks are best described as tiny and the loctician may install as many as 500 of them. The lightweight nature of the locks makes it easy to style them in different ways. The hairstyles associated with this style of lock are numerous since they are so small. You can do an attractive updo or even cornrows.

Brotherlocks Tool

Each individual Brotherlock is formed using a special, patented interlocking tool. Only a certified loctician is able to access the tool and do the installation. The tool is also necessary for maintaining your locks if you don’t want them to break. Palm rolling and other traditional locking techniques apply too much stress, which makes them unsuitable for the style.

Taking Care Of Your Hair

Whether you wear Locs, Sisterlocks, Dreadlocks or Brotherlocks, be sure to use a natural hair care regimen.

Locs should never be washed with regular shampoo. A favorite product many like to wash their hair with is ‘Dr. Brooner’s Peppermint Soap’. Dr. Brooner’s soap is anti-residue. It helps strip your locks of excess oils that accumulates between washing. The nice scent of the peppermint removes odors and leaves your hair smelling great and feeling really light. In addition, peppermint promotes hair growth by stimulating your follicles​.

Conditioners: Don’t use ever.

Never use conditioners on your locs. Conditioners work great for those that want tangle free, bouncy, shiny hair; however, it’s the worst thing for anyone with locs. On top of that the chemicals found in conditioners are some of the most harmful ingredients around.

Remember, detanglers are acidifies that close the cuticle of your hair or shield your hair shaft with polymers. This is the opposite of what you want! Locs are created from tangled hair, so conditioners and detanglers will not only slow down the ‘locking’ process but it can even prevent it.

Daily Treatment: Scalp Massage

Massage hair oil onto your scalp because having healthy hair starts from your scalp. In addition, add Obsessed Hair Oil to your scalp before you go to bed, so it can do its moisturizing magic while you sleep.

Listen Up: The location of where you oil your hair is important. Your hair is like a plant. When we water a plant, we don’t focus on watering the leaves, no, we water the root.

Why? Water is taken up by the roots of a plant and is transported through a plant to the leaves so the plant can grow and stay healthy. Like a plant, it is important moisturize your scalp if you want healthy locs.

Most Important Part Of The Plan

Hot oil treatments are your best friend and it is all natural. Oil bathes your hair in moisture. It also gives you the appearance of conditioned hair without your hair detangling. In addition it can repair damaged and weak hair too.

Routine You Should Follow

Wash your hair at least once each week.

Replace all the oils you washed out with a hot oil treatment. Use Obsessed Hair Oil on your hair while it’s damp.

Should you wrap your locks at night? Yes, but not with cotton or polyester materials because it causes friction and, as an end result, hair breakage. Instead stick with silk or satin wraps, scarves and caps. Silk prevents friction and breakage, but also stops the oil that’s keeping your hair moisturized from being absorbed into your cotton pillow cases.

In Summary

What have we learned? Well, for starters Sisterlocks have much smaller partitions than dreadlocks. The initial installation takes anywhere from 10 to 20 hours, which is a lot longer than dreadlocks. However, Sisterlocks lock much faster than traditional dreadlocks. Dreadlocks is hair that is matted together.

When it comes to creating locs there are several starting methods:

Locs With Braids

Locs With Comb Coils

Loc Extensions

Organic Freeform Dreadlocks

Sisterlocks

Brotherlock

Backcombing

Palm Rolling

Brotherlocks are similar to Sisterlocks; however, they tend to be a little larger and Brotherlocks are smaller than traditional locs. Most locticians say that Sisterlocks as well as Brotherlocks are easier to wash, moisturize and maintain. The reason is the smaller sections of hair.

That wraps up this guide; however, I will always remember Doria Ragland arriving at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle for her daughters wedding. Her beautiful, natural locs swept beneath her pillbox hat aka fascinator by Stephen Jones. Absolutely stunning!

Sherry Harris is Chief Content Officer of Obsessed Hair Oil. Learn more about the products we recommend and hair routines on the <a href="https://obsessedhairoil.com/start-here/">Start Here</a> page, and connect on <a href="https://twitter.com/obsessedhairoil">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/obsessedhairoil">Facebook</a>.